TravelTalkOnline Forums Thread Like Summary - What’s the deal with hotels “below the hill” in St. Maarten?

I’m 58 but look and act 45—so basically, I’m like a fine wine that moonlights as a spritzer. 🍷✨

I’m on the hunt for an adult vibe with all the essentials: a pool bar, a beach, and drinking in the pool (because why have your drink on land when you could have it in water?). But let’s be clear—this isn’t Spring Break 1985. I’m here for fun, not for beer pong championships.

On the Dutch side:
The Sonesta looks cool, it’s giving me “close to the action” vibes.
Le Samanna… Yeah, I’d need to sell a kidney to stay there, but do they do day passes? Asking for my bank account.

French side:
La Plage Hotel looks like a vibe, but are there other small spots along that strip I should know about?

Dutch Side: Am I missing any gems below the hill in Cupecoy, Maho, or Simpson Bay?
And what about the French side? Any hidden treasures you’d recommend before I start wandering aimlessly with a beach towel and a piña colada?

Thanks in advance, travel gurus!"

Personally, the reason I go to SXM over Hawaii or west coast Mexico is because of the beaches, swimming pools are there if you don't have a good beach.

Cupecoy area beach comes and goes but it is a great location that allows easy access to the rest of the island and has Dany's right on the beach as well as several restaurants and bars in the area. Mullet not a long walk and it is the most active beach on the Dutch side.

French side has some places that are lively but not a big evening bar scene, more of a dining scene.

My three suggestions other than staying in Cupecoy which is what I would do.
A place that has a mix might be The Morgan, good pool area and close to a lot of the action. No beach right there but not far away.
Sonesta - not my cup of tea but it does seem to have a lively pool area and beach on site as well as a good beach a short walk away at Mullet.
Atrium - Traffic can be an issue in that area around 3 to 6pm and the pool is weak, beach not the best but you have a lot in the evening with in walking distance including my favorite evening bar, Huppel the Pub.

T